Silver birch trees are the worst trees for allergies in the UK. Experts estimate that 25% of the population suffers from Birch Pollen allergy-related symptoms. Other UK tree species that are bad for allergy sufferers include alder, hazel, sycamore, oak, beech, and sweet chestnut. These trees have high pollen levels, which can cause hay fever and even oral allergy syndrome (Pollen Food Syndrome).
Trees typically begin releasing pollen that triggers hay fever in early February, though during mild weather conditions, pollen release can start as early as January.
Many factors, particularly climate change and shifts in weather patterns, affect pollen levels, which cause the pollen season’s start date to differ each year.
The 5 worst trees for allergies in the UK
Birch
Birch trees are among the most allergenic trees in the UK. They produce pollen from March to June, peaking in April and May. You will find birch trees on heathland and in lightly wooded areas.
Alder
Alder trees are very bad for allergy sufferers, releasing allergenic pollen from late January to April, peaking in March. You’ll likely find alder trees in damp locations such as riverbanks.
Hazel
Hazel trees produce similar pollen to birches and alders, which are highly allergenic. Hazel pollen is released from late January to April, with levels peaking in February and March. You often find hazel trees on woodland edges.
Sycamore
Sycamores and London plane trees produce pollen from spherical clustered flowers on long drooping stalks. Sycamores produce pollen from March to May, with pollen levels peaking in May. You primarily find sycamore and London plane trees in urban environments.
Oak
Oak trees stimulate moderate allergic reactions and release pollen from March to June, peaking in May. Oaks are among the most prevalent trees in the UK, and you will find them all over the region in urban, suburban and rural locations.
Common tree pollen allergy FAQs
What is tree pollen?
Tree pollen is a powdery substance released by trees during their reproductive cycle.
What tree is the worst for allergy sufferers?
The Birch tree is the worst tree for allergy sufferers. 25% of the UK population suffers from the symptoms of birch tree pollen allergies.
When is tree pollen season UK?
In the UK, tree pollen season typically starts from late March to mid-May.
What trees are the worst for allergies UK?
The worst trees for allergies are Birch, Alder, Hazel, Sycamore, London Plane and Oak trees.
What are the signs of tree pollen allergy?
Tree pollen allergies (hay fever) can cause symptoms, including itchy eyes, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and fatigue.
How to stop tree pollen allergies?
To treat tree pollen allergies (hay fever), you can use over-the-counter or prescription medications like antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and immunotherapy in severe cases.
What is pollen food syndrome?
Pollen food syndrome, or oral allergy syndrome, is an allergic reaction the immune system generates because it mistakes fruit, vegetable or nut proteins as pollen. The immune system reacts, causing mild pollen allergy symptoms such as tingling or itching in the throat, mouth, or lips.
Contact us for advice on what trees to plant for allergy sufferers or tree planting in North London. We provide free professional advice and quotations from qualified arborists and tree surgeons in North London.
